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www.oakvillebeaver.com The Oakville Beaver, Friday May 18, 2007 - 13 Halton's credit rating still top of the list For the 18th year in a row, Halton is tops when it comes to credit ratings. Independent ratings agency Moody's Investors Service has again confirmed Halton Region's AAA credit rating. It is the highest available to any issuer of long-term debt in North America. "Halton's AAA credit rating is good news for residents because it means that the Region and the local municipalities can borrow money at the lowest possible interest rates," said Regional Chair Gary Carr. "Thanks to our prudent fiscal management and our commitment to multi-year planning, we can pass our lower costs on to our taxpayers," said Carr. The Moody's report recognizes the Region's ability to leverage its financial rating when it comes to providing services to the community. Halton's balanced financial profile, including dependable cash flows, predictable operat- "Halton has been recognized year after year for its outstanding credit rating and strong financial management." Jane MacCaskill, Acting CAO and regional treasurer ing expenditures and careful response to emerging cost pressures, supports the Region's high credit rating. "Halton has been recognized year after year for its outstanding credit rating and strong financial management," said Jane MacCaskill, acting CAO and regional treasurer. "The AAA rating allows Halton to continue to deliver essential services to Halton residents and businesses and confirms our balanced approach to long-term capital planning," said MacCaskill. According to Moody's, Halton's cost pressures have been managed with modest tax increases, strong assessment growth and spending reallocations. Moody's has attached a stable outlook to the Region's profile, indicating their confidence in its ability to maintain this rating in the future. In addition, transfers from the federal government, including the GST rebate and federal gas tax funding, will help to moderate the impact of certain financial pressures over the next few years.